market trends & esports news

Professional esports is expected to see continued revenue growth and investment, driven by a range of factors that have pushed the industry further into the mainstream, according to a new survey conducted by law firm Foley & Lardner LLP and The Esports Observer. But industry participants are also eyeing an array of concerns as they focus on protecting and legitimizing their brands at this critical juncture in the esports industry’s development.

As esports continues to break further into the mainstream, Foley & Lardner LLP and The Esports Observer surveyed more than 120 professionals to analyze the most pressing business and legal issues.

The survey revealed expectations of continued revenue growth and investment in esports, driven by a range of factors, including the growing involvement of traditional professional sports teams, leagues and figures; the rise of streaming deals involving major technology companies and TV networks; and the broadening of advertising and sponsorships. Industry participants also expressed concerns about a variety of risks to the maturing industry, including match fixing, cybersecurity and malware attacks, and intellectual property rights and licensing issues.